We love and admire our school counselors and staff! The role of a school guidance counselor has so many aspects, from helping students prepare for their class schedule to supporting their mental health. The role of counselor has evolved quickly as well in response to students having very different school experiences during the global pandemic.
Cate Reed, seasoned administrator, current Senior Vice President of Teach For America, and Possip Reporter, explores how guidance counselors can empower students to choose the right schedule.
High school counselors can play a pivotal role as they help students select an appropriate schedule. For many students, academics, extracurricular activities, and other commitments all compete for their time, and helping them find the right balance to set them up for success can be a complex puzzle.
On top of that, students can be reluctant to take the advice of guidance counselors when their friends or family members might have a different point of view on how they should think about their future.
When possible, meet with kids 1:1 at the beginning of the year. If your caseload is high, consider meeting with kids in pods. Have them sign up for pods based on their interests. Attend athletic events or school plays and clubs where students can see you taking an interest in who they are and what they want to be outside the classroom.
